Coin of Constantine I, Trier 316

Editor: Here we have a coin of Constantine I from Trier. Seeing both sides, I'm struck by the use of imagery to project power. What do you see in this piece? Curator: It's compelling, isn't it? Think about Constantine’s conversion to Christianity. How did this impact the Roman Empire, especially in terms of power structures and social hierarchies? This coin isn't just currency; it's propaganda, forging a new identity. Editor: So, you're saying it was more than just money? Curator: Absolutely! The iconography of the emperor, combined with early Christian symbolism, speaks volumes about the shifting cultural landscape and Constantine's role in reshaping it. This coin offers a tiny, but powerful, glimpse into a world in transition.